Feb. 20, 1:45 p.m.: Search and Rescue Teams Look for Way Forward

Editor’s Note Feb. 20, 3:16 p.m.: The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office determined avalanche mitigation could begin this afternoon.

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office has begun conducting aerial flights over the Castle Peak avalanche site. The clear skies are a stark contrast to the initial white-out conditions rescue crews faced, and the aerial flights will allow search and rescue (SAR) teams to determine the extent of possible avalanche mitigation.

Should the teams begin avalanche control with explosives that trigger unstable snow layers to release, they can reduce the risk posed to SAR operations as they plan to recover the remaining eight deceased victims. The additional victim remains unaccounted for. 

“It is our top priority to ensure the safety of first responders during this recovery mission and aid in the return of each victim to their families,” said Tahoe National Forest Supervisor Chris Feutrier in a statement. “Our deepest condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones from this tragic incident. Our sincere appreciation to all first responders, law enforcement, and partners that are supporting this recovery.”

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office will release an update if on-the-ground operations are continued. Presently, the Tahoe National Forest remains closed to the public with the high avalanche danger.

KCRA 3 shared footage from Livecopter 3 as it headed to the site.

~ MR